Comparison of insertion characteristics of LMA ProSeal and Ambu AuraGain in adult patients under controlled ventilation: A randomised study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Supraglottic devices are preformed or flexible, and the insertion characteristics of the two types may be different. This study aims to compare the insertion characteristics of Ambu AuraGain (AAG), preformed) and LMA ProSeal (PLMA), flexible, requires an introducer tool for placement.

METHODS: Forty American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status I/II patients of either sex between 18 and 60 years with no anticipated airway difficulty were randomly allocated to either group AAG or PLMA (n = 20 each). Pregnant females, known case of chronic respiratory disorders and gastroesophageal reflux were excluded. After induction of anaesthesia and muscle relaxation, appropriately sized AAG or PLMA was inserted. Time for successful insertion (primary outcome), ease of device insertion and gastric drain insertion, first attempt success rate (secondary outcomes) were recorded. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 20.0. Quantitative parameters were compared using Student's t -test, and qualitative parameters were compared using Chi-square test. A P value of <0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS: Time taken for successful insertion of PLMA was 22.94 ± 6.12 s and for AAG was 24.32 ± 4.96 s, ( P = 0.458). Device insertion was significantly easy in PLMA group ( P < 0.002). First attempt success rate was achieved in 17 (94.4%) cases in PLMA group compared to 15 (78.9%) cases in AAG group ( P = 0.168). Ease of drain tube insertion was comparable among the groups ( P = 0.298). The haemodynamic variables were also comparable.

CONCLUSION: PLMA is easier to insert as compared to AAG, but the insertion time and first attempt success rate are similar. The preformed curvature in AAG does not provide any added advantage over the non-preformed PLMA.